By Theodora Amedetor-Yakanu
The Ghana Boundary Commission has begun a field inspection exercise along the Ghana–Côte d’Ivoire border as part of efforts to strengthen territorial integrity and promote regional stability.
The inspection forms part of Stage One, Phase One of the Ghana–Côte d’Ivoire Boundary Reaffirmation Exercise, a joint initiative expected to be completed by March 31, 2026.
The exercise is assessing progress on the construction of International Boundary Pillars, reviewing marked locations for upcoming works, and engaging border communities to ensure local support and prevent future boundary disputes.
Out of 37 pillars earmarked for this stage — comprising 12 Main Pillars, 22 Intermediate Pillars, 2 Border Crossing Pillars and 1 Terminus Pillar — 14 have so far been completed. These include 4 Main Pillars and 10 Intermediate Pillars. Construction began in January 2026 after a joint staking-out exercise conducted between November and December 2025.
Among the sites inspected were the historic Tano Pillar and the Farafarako International Boundary Pillar.
Speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner General of the Ghana Boundary Commission, Major General Anthony Ntem, said the Commission is constitutionally mandated to manage and protect Ghana’s international land, maritime and airspace boundaries.
He explained that several colonial-era boundary markers have deteriorated over time due to vegetation overgrowth and human activity, making the reaffirmation exercise necessary to safeguard Ghana’s sovereignty and prevent potential conflicts.
The pillar construction phase of the exercise officially commenced in July 2025 with a stone-laying ceremony at New Town in the Jomoro Municipality, the location of the Terminus Pillar, also known as Boundary Pillar 55.
The project is being executed by the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces. The Officer-in-Charge of the 48 Engineers, Lieutenant Clifford Abrokwah, indicated that additional personnel have been deployed to accelerate work and ensure the project meets its deadline despite the challenging terrain. The Forestry Commission is also supporting the exercise.
As part of the inspection tour, the team paid a courtesy call on the Ghana Revenue Authority at the Elubo border. The Sector Commander, DCOI Joshua Krakue, assured the Commission of the GRA’s full cooperation in safeguarding the country’s boundaries.
The Boundary Reaffirmation Exercise is part of broader efforts across West Africa to maintain clear borders and strengthen peaceful relations among neighbouring states.
